USG Seeks Private Sector Participation in a “Discussion Group on Space Situational Awareness”
The U.S. Department of State’s Office of Space Affairs has posted a solicitation seeking private sector participation in a “Discussion Group on the topic of Space Situational Awareness (SSA).”
Background:
The growing number of satellites in orbit has afforded increased economic, scientific, and technological benefits to the United States and countries around the world. As the international community expands its presence in space, we must also address the challenges that arise from the increasing number of objects in orbit to ensure a safe, operational, and economically viable orbital environment. Timely, accurate, and available SSA information is essential to avoid collisions and other disruptive events in orbit. While there are a number of national, regional, and commercial SSA systems, communication between satellite operators can still be stymied by issues as simple as missing or out-of-date contact information.
To better understand the SSA landscape and identify common sense and effective ways to improve communication and information sharing among satellite operators, the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (UNCOPUOS) established an “Expert Group on SSA” in June 2025.
Purpose:
The United States views the participation of and input from private sector actors in these discussions as essential for any outcome to be practical, implementable, and effective.
The Department of State, in coordination with relevant Departments and Agencies, is therefore seeking to convene interested and relevant non-governmental stakeholders to provide input on SSA discussions within UNCOPUOS.
How to Participate:
Please review the Department of State’s solicitation for more information on what the group is, how to join, and potential opportunities for in-person participation.
To express interest in participating as a private sector advisor in the SSA Discussion Group, please submit the following material to GugliettaRT@state.gov by December 31, 2025:
- A brief description of your organization (max 300 words);
- An explanation of why you would like to participate in the SSA discussion group and how your experience and expertise are relevant to this topic (max 300 words); and
- A curriculum vitae.
The expressions of interest will be reviewed and individuals will be informed of their status by January 7, 2026.